Tuesday, May 12, 2015

Grand Teton National Park to Raise Entrance Fees

As part of a larger National Park Service (NPS) initiative to update entrance fees in place since 2006, Grand Teton National Park plans to implement a new fee structure starting June 1, 2015. Additional revenues generated by this fee change are expected to reach $1.2 million. The added income will be used to fund trail improvements in the Jenny Lake area; restore and stabilize historic buildings for greater understanding and appreciation of the park's history and culture; expand youth outreach programs; and resurface park roads.

The proposed change underwent a 30-day public review and comment period at the end of 2014, and the new fee structure was approved after full consideration of impacts to visitors and local communities. Grand Teton received 59 official comments and park managers heard from nearly a dozen people during a public open house. While some people expressed concern for the fee increase, others expressed support of this change.

The new fee structure, effective June 1st, includes:

• $30 for a 7-day pass to only Grand Teton by private vehicle

• $50 for a 7-day pass to both Grand Teton & Yellowstone by vehicle

• $60 for a Grand Teton Annual Pass (valid one year)

• $15 for a 7-day pass to only Grand Teton by foot/bicycle

• $20 for a 7-day pass to both Grand Teton & Yellowstone by foot/bicycle

• $25 for a 7-day pass to only Grand Teton by motorcycle

• $40 for a 7-day pass to both Grand Teton & Yellowstone by motorcycle

• $80 for an Interagency annual pass to all federal fee areas (valid one year)

"When compared to other destinations and tourist attractions across the U.S., national parks provide outstanding opportunities to experience our American heritage and make lasting memories through an affordable family vacation," said Superintendent David Vela. "The relatively modest increase in entry fees is not expected to significantly alter park visitation, which reached an all-time high in 2014 with nearly 2.8 million recreational visits recorded."